Ian LeMay Discusses California Table Grape Commission's Organic Produce Summit Debut

FRESNO, CA - There is nothing quite like the walk down Alvarado Street toward the Monterey Marriott with a coffee in hand from the Alta Bakery and Cafe. It is, perhaps, the only time I welcome a long morning walk before a show floor, and I am not the only one. Often, I come across familiar faces already sitting on patios in morning meetings or, like me, taking the scenic route on foot.

It is a unique experience I’ve tied to the Organic Produce Summit, and one I was eager to share with Ian LeMay, Commission President, when he told me the California Table Grape Commission (CTGC) is joining the show for the first time.

“Our team is excited to participate and connect with retailers on promotions for another promising California table grape season. July is an excellent moment to connect with the commission marketing team as the California table grape harvest is in full swing, and retailers can lock in back-to-school and fall promotions,” he said.

The team will be going beyond the trade show floor, showcasing a live chef demo with California grapes at the Second Level Lobby of the Monterey Convention Center from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 16.

According to the commission, shoppers are drawn to grapes from California for their quality, safety, and variety. With over 80 varieties of table grapes grown in California, there is a taste available for every shopper, so retailers can showcase an array of California grape options as diverse as their shoppers.

“Organic grapes are an important component of the overall grape category because they help retailers offer choice to consumers. Having both organically- and conventionally-grown California grapes available ensures the category can appeal to a broad range of shoppers,” Ian pointed out. “The majority of promotable California table grape volume is shipped after September 1, so OPS in July truly represents a terrific opportunity to plan retail promotions for the fall. The Grapes from California global marketing campaign offers a variety of incentives for retailers and wholesalers, including contests, digital promotions, merchandising, point-of-purchase materials, sampling, and a retail RD program to motivate the sale of California grapes.”

CTGC has an extensive library of content and recipes accessible to retailers it works with, complementing the motivation consumers display when met with a variety of activities such as advertising California grapes on multi-retailer shopper apps, sharing grape usage ideas and health information through commission social media, and partnering with social media influencers.

You can shake hands with the commission team—and maybe share your favorite Monterey experience with them!—at booth #910, July 13–16.